I feel it necessary to make something clear (Re: the Malamute Post). Authority training does not require walking around with a big stick, and shouting orders at dogs. If you lose your temper, you have lost control, and your dog will know that too!

Consider people who have had authority/control in our lives: Parents, Teacher, Work Colleague, Policeman etc... They have guided and controlled our actions and attitude (hopefully to good effect).

Obedience is not simply the formal competition variety, that is an extension of your ability to teach the dog certain required exercises.

Obedience and good control is what actually happens in THE HOME! This is where it is most important, this is living with your dog. Take the informal Recall for instance, now if you cannot get your dog to respond immediately first time in the garden, you have little chance outside. Very few Club Instructors will teach their Members how! For those of you who do consider your dog is obedient and will return every time, try this later on:- While the dog is laying down minding his own business, in the Living room, just a few feet away from you, and you are quietly sitting watching the TV, say his/her name and "COME". Now how does your dog respond. Some of you will certainly find your dog will get up and come over to you to see what you want - congratualations. Most will look at you as if to say "What" (they are NOT being naughty, they have just not learned that Come means come to you no matter where or the distance).

Same as when you are out and call your dog back, does he come within a few feet and then turn away again? Does he come right to you, but also run past? Does he actually come right to you and look up at you to see what you want?

Authority training like any method takes time and understanding. I want happy, well adjusted, relaxed and obedient dogs around me, and so do the people I help to train.

Books have been written observing wild dogs or wolves, but observing domestic dogs in their relationship with people is what actually matters.

Different breeds have different traits, but they are all PACK ANIMALS - and Pack animals require a worthy Leader.

Denise.